Basic 4: Managing ADHD

Managing ADHD

A combination of medication and coaching has been shown to be highly effective in treating the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD.

But some people object to the use of stimulant medications, or have trouble getting a prescription.

And while coaching can be very effective – with the right coach – it’s often hard to find one nearby. Also, coaching can be expensive and is rarely covered by insurance.

So what can you do to manage your ADHD symptoms by yourself?

4 Basics to Managing ADHD

Get enough sleep, and do so on a regular basis. It seems that getting enough sleep is hard for all of us these days, and no one functions properly when they haven’t slept well or long enough. People with ADD, however, will feel that lack of sleep more acutely. In addition to feeling tired and sluggish, their ADD symptoms (inability to focus, hyperactivity, etc) will be more pronounced and more difficult to manage. By the way, going to bed and going to sleep are two different things.

Eat a balanced diet. Again, we all function better when we eat good, healthy food, and people with ADHD are no exception. It almost seems, though, that having ADD brings with it a heightened sensitivity to our environment. Just as we are more aware of what is happening around us, so, too, is our body more aware of what we put into it. Too much fat, too much sugar, and/or too much junk food will cause ADHD symptoms to flare and make them more difficult to control.

Give some thought to wheat and dairy. There is a growing number of doctors, nutritionists, and parents who believe that a diet free of both wheat and dairy products can have a significant impact on ADD symptoms. If you (or your child) suffer from allergies, even non-food related ones, you might want to consider this option. Do some research first, and see if it makes sense to you.

Exercise! Evidence has shown that as little as 30 minutes of vigorous exercise can improve focus and concentration for hours. Done on a regular basis, it can have a significant impact on ADHD symptoms.

Those are my basic 4 strategies for managing ADD symptoms. Not earth shattering, surely, but good stuff we sometimes need to be reminded of.

As far as the wheat free diet – if you’ve got questions, let me know. I’ve been living it for years now.